Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.